Art in Action at the Delray Beach Open

Between the stadium and white tents is an art oasis at the 2017 Delray Beach Open.

Local artists have been painting portraits and graphics live all week as we await the most anticipated semifinals in DBO history.  Juan Martin del Potro, the hopeful Argentinean for singles in the ATP World Tour, beat out reigning champion Sam Querrey in his quest for back-to-back titles Friday night.

The affair has transformed from a sporting event into a cultural festival of food, art, music and more. Bordered by palms decked in blue and white tree lights, the live music stage hosts sessions of local, emerging talent.  

Hello Elevator set the mood Monday night with neo-hip-hop vocals, a thumping bass and electric violin. 

Facing a mural on the east side of the stadium is a pop-up gallery featuring artwork from David Banegas, William DeBilzan, Dave McMahon, and Magoz. Most evenings provided live painting entertainment.

Above, Magoz paints the iconic yellow tennis ball representing an event that celebrates a quarter century this year. Manuel Gonzalez Behrens—known as Magoz—learned his technique and use of color from his grandmother as a child in Venezuela.

The variety of artwork attracted many crossover customers attending the tournament.  As seen in the iconic portraits Banegas displayed, he executed his famous style live in a tribute to the tennis player Roger Federer. Magoz also featured his signature sea-life with a floating tennis ball as homage to the event.

The South Florida climate provided pleasant temperatures peaking at 80°­­­­­­­ with clear skies throughout the weeklong event.

Attendees enjoy sunset as the stadium anticipates a heated match between del Potro and Anderson. 

Drawing in more than 50,000 spectators, the Delray Beach Open is televised internationally and creates a venue for local artists to spotlight their work.